1997 Nissan Maxima vs. 2009 Renault Clio

To start off, 2009 Renault Clio is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Nissan Maxima (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2009 Renault Clio. (111 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2009 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 130 kg more than 2009 Renault Clio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Nissan Maxima (177 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Renault Clio. (151 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Renault Clio. 2009 Renault Clio has automatic transmission and 1997 Nissan Maxima has manual transmission. 1997 Nissan Maxima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Renault Clio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Nissan Maxima 2009 Renault Clio
Make Nissan Renault
Model Maxima Clio
Year Released 1997 2009
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 138 HP 111 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 177 Nm 151 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 4250 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1345 kg 1215 kg
Vehicle Length 4780 mm 3990 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 2030 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1710 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2580 mm